Subject: Sent in my renewal paperwork today.
From: "Simple Simon"

Comments interspersed:

I did a little asking around and was advised to avoid
the REC in Miami. The word is that place is hopelessly
understaffed, way behind, disorganized and picky as hell.

That applies to any number of the offices


Turns out New Orleans is one of the better run offices
with minimal backlog. Since my original license was
issued out of New Orleans I sent the paperwork there.

This may or may not be a problem. Where your files are NOW, is where you need
to send your info, unless you request to have the files sent to a particular
office .... so....if all your files still remained in N.O., you have no problem
..... if you have had them moved ..... you have a problem.


I'm willing to bet you it will go through with no sending
of papers back and forth. I've filled out everything
properly and completely. It will go right through.

LOL haven't got much experience with gov'ment beauraucrats, I see.


The rumors are that the Coast Guard is close to turning
the entire process over to civilian outfits. The Coasties
want out of the licensing business. But, until there is
something definite the RECs will continue to process
the renewals.

Would be the best thing to happen to all professional mariners.
With all due respect to the job the USCG is trying to do with licensing, they
have no business, being in licensing, since they have no experience in the area
of the majority of the licenses they issue.
When you are examined, you are examined by someone who doesn't know the
subject, first hand, except in the basic areas and fundementals.
The USCG, needs to let licensing go back to what it once was ....professional
deck and engineering people, giving test that required a response that showed
REAL knowledge, to the examiner, not just the ability to pass a test..... same
applies to vessel inspections.


Word is they aren't all that strict with
renewal papers but they are giving hell to original
applicants.

Wrong


Besides I still have a top secret security clearance at
the FBI. They trust me. . . I'm one of their least concerns
from a security standpoint.

That, and $1.50, will get you a cuppa coffee ...... in some places.


Shen